Romelu Lukaku meanwhile was unable to make it eight goals in as many top-flight games for Mourinho's men when he fumbled a one-on-one opportunity on the stroke of half-time.

Salah was a bright spot for the Reds in the game. Photo: Squawka

If it was mildly perplexing to see a side in such previously prolific goalscoring form isolate Lukaku for long periods before the break, the second period descended into a Liverpool attack versus United defence.

Jurgen Klopp's men were unable to find a way through and have now won just one out of eight in all competitions – Mourinho must hope he does not regret showing so much respect to opponents in such form come May.